Netherlands

The Netherlands combines a highly connected European location with an outward-looking economy, world-class infrastructure and a strong culture of innovation. Amsterdam’s international business community give entrepreneurs exceptional access to European markets.

Netherlands Golden Visa

The Netherlands no longer offers a Golden Visa or Residency by Investment program. Its foreign investor residence permit closed to new applicants from 1 January 2024. Launched in 2013, the former route required an investment of at least €1.25 million in a qualifying Dutch company, approved fund, venture company or contractual joint venture.

Investors seeking a European alternative may consider Portugal’s Golden Visa, where qualifying fund investment starts from €500,000, or Greece, where qualifying property routes start from €250,000. Both provide Schengen residence without relocation.

Netherlands Start-up Visa

The Netherlands has an active route for innovative entrepreneurs. Applicants must work with an approved facilitator, present an innovative business concept and detailed development plan, play an active role in the company and show sufficient funds to support themselves. The permit is valid for up to one year. After that year, founders may apply for a self-employed residence permit, provided they meet other requirements.

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Dutch Citizenship by Investment

The Netherlands does not offer Citizenship by Investment, and business ownership does not create a direct right to a Dutch passport. Naturalisation is generally possible after five consecutive years of legal residence. Applicants must hold an eligible permanent or non-temporary residence status, pass the civic integration requirement and meet the country’s public-order and other naturalisation conditions. In many cases, the existing nationality must be renounced.

Investors seeking direct second citizenship may instead consider Grenada, which offers established contribution and approved real estate routes without requiring long-term residence.

Netherlands Passport Strength & Ranking

The long-term route to Dutch citizenship leads to one of the world’s most valuable passports. The Dutch passport ranks 8th out of 199 passports in the La Vida Passport Value Index and provides access to 215 of the world’s 227 destinations through visa-free entry, visa on arrival, eTA or eVisa arrangements. This reach covers 99.4% of global GDP and 99.6% of the worldwide visitor market, giving its holders exceptional access for business, investment and international travel.